Poll’s Findings Reveal Adaptable Imaging Systems to Transform Ultrasound Imaging

A new range of versatile, portable, and easy-to-use imaging technology will have the most significant impact on ultrasound imaging over the next five years, according to a recent poll of healthcare professionals.

Nearly half of respondents (44%) at the UK Radiology Congress (UKRC) 2013, held June 10–12, 2013, in Leeds (UK), stated that versatile imaging systems would take the lead as sonographers look to technology suitable for a wide range of clinical settings. This was followed closely by ergonomics (33%) and portability (21%), stressing the significance of imaging equipment that can be transported from site-to-site and yet remain easy to use. Siemens Healthcare (Erlangen, Germany) conducted the poll.

Respondents stated a major challenge confronting healthcare professionals in 2013 was poor image quality (59%), frequently irritated by an increasing patient weight (body mass index [BMI]). Another topic emphasized was cumbersomeness (21%), with many ultrasound systems being too large to handle or concealed with wires making access to the patient and infection control increasingly difficult.

“The market has been demanding systems with in-built simplicity, flexibility, and portability for some time. This event survey demonstrates that over the next five years, the market for ultrasound systems will need to adapt to these demands, without compromising on image quality,” stated Bernadette Leonard, UK business manager, ultrasound and echocardiology products at Siemens Healthcare. “We continuously listen to customer feedback and develop new products to meet evolving industry demands. The Acuson Freestyle is one of five new ultrasound products that Siemens Healthcare has introduced in the last 12 months, focused on innovation, miniaturization, and expanding our reach into new clinical segments.”

The Acuson Freestyle, with wireless transducers features a simple interface and a transducer range of up to three meters, enabling remote control and operation. Three different types of wireless transducers have been developed for the system, covering a range of general imaging, vascular, and high-frequency applications such as musculoskeletal and nerve imaging. The system has a 38-cm high-resolution light-emitting diode (LED) display, plus the system console can easily be mounted on a lightweight cart and operates on battery power for added flexibility and mobility.

The face-to-face questionnaire was given over 40 healthcare professionals at this year’s UKRC.

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